SJR83

A Joint Resolution designating May of each year as “Let’s Move to a Healthier New Jersey” month.

Whereas, The fitness industry is an integral and essential component of the health care continuum in New Jersey and the nation; and

Whereas, The fitness industry serves many sectors of the population and addresses the wellness needs of all people, regardless of fitness level, and helps improve the lives of people living with chronic illness, behavioral health conditions, and other physical and mental health issues; and

Whereas, With the rising concerns with mental illness, the fitness industry understands its responsibility and the critical role it plays in supporting all sectors of the population by showcasing the extremely positive impact of exercise and nutrition for those needing this support; and

Whereas, The fitness industry in New Jersey is committed to further demonstrating to our communities its essential role in serving the entire population of New Jersey, both in good times and during more challenging periods; and

Whereas, Over the next five years, with the support of the New Jersey State Legislature, the fitness industry will work to bring fitness and wellness to underserved communities throughout the State, ensuring that all New Jerseyans have the opportunity to realize the benefits of moving and exercising every day; and

Whereas, The fitness industry will work tirelessly to have a seat at the table when discussing health care and the overall health of the population in New Jersey through the proposed establishment of a Healthcare and Fitness Council; and

Whereas, The fitness industry in the future will demonstrate to all that personal fitness providers are not a danger zone, but rather constitute an essential industry that is equipped to meet the health and wellness needs of every person in New Jersey; and

Whereas, Regular exercise is a proven means of reducing health care costs, and the fitness industry is committed to bringing these benefits to all sectors of the population; and

Whereas, The fitness industry will work with State and county governments to attract a more diverse employee base by offering employment opportunities to all individuals who desire a career in health and wellness, as well as to create new fitness industry employment opportunities to areas of the State where personal fitness needs are currently underserved; and

Whereas, The fitness industry in New Jersey is committed to leave no child or senior behind and develop health and wellness opportunities that are scalable and can be shared by all sectors of the fitness industry; and

Whereas, In May, the State of New Jersey recognizes, appreciates and supports the essential and outstanding work of the fitness industry and the important role it plays in making New Jersey the healthiest state in the nation; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

1. a. May of each year is designated as “Let’s Move to a Healthier New Jersey Month” in New Jersey, in recognition of the physical and mental health benefits of exercise and fitness, and the key role the fitness industry plays in bringing these fitness services to all residents of this State.

b. The Governor is respectfully called upon to annually issue a proclamation recognizing May of each year as “Let’s Move to a Healthier New Jersey Month” and calling upon public officials and the citizens of the State to commemorate the month with appropriate programs and activities.

2. This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.

STATEMENT

This joint resolution designates May of each year as “Let’s Move to a Healthier New Jersey Month” in New Jersey, in recognition of the physical and mental health benefits of exercise and fitness, and the key role the fitness industry plays in bringing these fitness services to all residents of this State. The resolution respectfully calls on the Governor to annually issue a proclamation recognizing the month and calling upon public officials and the citizens of the State to commemorate the month with appropriate programs and activities.